Sausage, Onions, and Peppers Recipe
Meta Description: This easy Sausage, Onions, and Peppers recipe features juicy Italian sausage, sweet caramelized onions, and colorful bell peppers cooked in a savory garlic herb sauce. Perfect for a quick family dinner.
Sausage, Onions, and Peppers is a classic comfort-food meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Juicy sausage is browned until golden, then cooked with sweet onions, colorful bell peppers, garlic, and Italian seasonings.
The vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized while soaking up all the delicious flavor from the sausage. Serve it with crusty bread, over rice, alongside mashed potatoes, or tucked into toasted hoagie rolls for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds Italian sausage, mild or hot
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage
If using sausage links, leave them whole for the initial browning.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the sausages and cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned on all sides.
They don’t need to be completely cooked through yet.
Transfer the sausages to a plate and let them rest.
2. Cook the Onions and Peppers
Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet.
Add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
Cook for approximately 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and begin to caramelize.
Season with a little salt and black pepper.
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook for approximately 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Slice the Sausage
Cut the browned sausages into thick slices or bite-sized pieces.
Return them to the skillet with the peppers and onions.
5. Add the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce.
Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release the flavorful browned bits.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Finish Cooking
Cover the skillet and cook for approximately 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The sausage should be completely cooked through, while the peppers and onions should be tender and flavorful.
If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid during the final few minutes and allow it to reduce.
For food safety, pork or beef sausage should reach the appropriate safe internal temperature; ground meat sausage is generally cooked to 160°F (71°C), while poultry sausage should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Add Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately with warm crusty bread, rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or toasted hoagie rolls.
Tips for the Best Sausage, Onions, and Peppers
Brown the sausage first: This creates a flavorful crust and leaves delicious browned bits in the skillet.
Don’t rush the vegetables: Allowing the onions and peppers to caramelize gives the dish much more flavor.
Choose your favorite sausage: Mild Italian sausage works well for families, while hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick.
Slice the peppers evenly: Similar-sized pieces cook more evenly.
Let the sauce reduce: If you prefer a thicker, richer sauce, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Easy Variations
Sausage and Peppers Hoagies
Slice the cooked sausage and stuff it into toasted hoagie rolls with plenty of peppers, onions, and melted provolone cheese.
Creamy Version
Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream during the final few minutes for a rich creamy sauce.
Cheesy Version
Top with shredded mozzarella or provolone and cover the skillet until the cheese melts.
Spicy Version
Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
Tomato-Rich Version
Increase the tomato sauce to 1 cup and add a handful of diced tomatoes.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly heated.
You can also freeze the cooked sausage and vegetables for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This Sausage, Onions, and Peppers Recipe is hearty, colorful, savory, and packed with delicious flavor. The combination of juicy sausage, sweet onions, tender bell peppers, garlic, and Italian seasonings makes it an easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.